The first time the scent of fresh oranges and warm spices filled my kitchen, I knew I had stumbled upon a cookie recipe that would become a holiday tradition. These Orange Clove Christmas Cookies are not just any sweet treat; they’re a nostalgic embrace wrapped in a crispy exterior and a burst of citrusy goodness. As the holidays approach, I find myself yearning for simple yet flavorful desserts that bring family and friends together.
With just a handful of pantry staples and a little love, these cookies come to life. Each bite is an unexpected delight, combining the zesty aroma of orange and the warmth of spices like cinnamon and clove. If you’re looking to impress at your next gathering or simply want to fill your home with festive cheer, this recipe is both easy and crowd-pleasing. Let’s dive into the magic of these delightful cookies—your taste buds will thank you!
Why are Orange Clove Christmas Cookies special?
Festive Flavors: These cookies boast a delightful blend of orange and spices, making every bite a festive treat.
Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip these cookies up in no time.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for holiday gatherings, they’re sure to impress family and friends.
Aromatic Delight: The scent of baking cookies will envelop your home in warm, inviting aromas.
Versatile Recipe: You can customize them by adding chocolate chips or nuts for a personal touch.
Perfect for Gifting: Wrap them up in pretty packaging and share the joy of homemade treats during the holidays!
Orange Clove Christmas Cookies Ingredients
Discover the delightful ingredients that make these cookies a holiday favorite!
For the Cookie Dough
- 170 g butter, softened – Adds richness and flavor for a tender cookie base.
- 40 g honey – For natural sweetness and a hint of floral flavor.
- 40 g fancy molasses – Enhances the cookies with deep, warm tones.
- 1/2 tsp salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- 1 large orange, zested – Infuses bright citrus notes to the dough.
- few dehydrated orange rings, finely chopped (optional) – Adds texture and bursts of orange flavor.
- 1 tsp cinnamon – A warm spice that brings the holiday spirit.
- 1/2 tsp ginger or more, to taste – For a warm, zesty kick that complements the orange.
- 1/4 tsp grated nutmeg or more, to taste – Adds a nutty sweetness and warmth.
- 1/4 tsp cardamom – A unique spice for a more complex flavor palette.
- a pinch of clove – A must-have for that classic holiday taste.
- a pinch of allspice – Contributes to the cookies’ aromatic profile.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the sweetness and adds depth of flavor.
- 300 g flour – Provides structure for the cookies, helping them hold their shape.
For the Glaze
- 150 g icing sugar – Creates a sweet topping that adds to the cookie’s festive appeal.
- 30 ml orange juice or slightly more – Freshens the glaze with a citrus punch.
- 30 ml Cointreau or slightly more – Adds a luxurious twist with an orange liqueur flavor.
- a little pinch of clove – Finish the glaze with a touch of warmth that complements the cookies.
With these Orange Clove Christmas Cookies ingredients, you’re well on your way to crafting a delightful seasonal treat that will fill your home with joy and flavor!
How to Make Orange Clove Christmas Cookies
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Cream Together: In a bowl, cream the softened butter, honey, fancy molasses, vanilla extract, and salt on medium speed for about one minute until smooth and fluffy.
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Add Spices: Sprinkle in the zested orange, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cardamom, clove, and allspice. Beat for just 10 seconds to incorporate these warm holiday flavors.
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Mix Dough: Gradually stir in the flour, first using a whisk and then a spoon, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Adjust the consistency with flour or a splash of water/milk as needed.
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Chill Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm it up—this makes rolling or stamping much easier!
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Shape Cookies: If using a cookie stamp, shape small dough pieces into balls, dust with flour, and press a flour-dusted stamp onto each ball before placing them on a baking sheet. If not stamping, roll out the dough and cut it into festive shapes with cookie cutters.
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Preheat and Arrange: Preheat your oven to 350°F (~175°C) while arranging the formed cookies on lined baking sheets.
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Bake: Bake the cookies for about 10-14 minutes, or until the edges turn slightly golden brown. Remember, it’s better to underbake slightly since they’ll return to the oven later!
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Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the icing sugar, orange juice, Cointreau, and a pinch of clove, until smooth. Adjust the consistency with additional juice or liqueur if necessary.
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Glaze Cookies: Once baked, allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes. Then, dip each one into the glaze or drizzle the glaze over them while they’re still on the baking sheet.
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Re-bake: Return the glazed cookies to the oven for 2 minutes. Then, turn off the heat and leave them in the oven for an additional 1-2 minutes to set the glaze.
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Cool Completely: Let the cookies cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious.
Optional: Dust with extra powdered sugar before serving for a festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Orange Clove Christmas Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these cookies to match your festive spirit.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy these cookies without any worries. Explore different combinations for a unique twist!
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a decadent touch by drizzling melted dark or white chocolate over the glazed cookies for an indulgent finish. Chocolate and orange are a classic match!
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for an added crunch that complements the soft texture. The nutty flavor enhances the overall richness of the cookies.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the ginger or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an unexpected spicy pop that contrasts with the sweet orange. This adventurous twist might just surprise your taste buds!
- Dried Fruit: Mix in some chopped dried cranberries or apricots to introduce a chewy texture and a burst of fruity sweetness. This variation brings color and flair to your cookie platter.
- Vegan-Friendly: Substitute butter with coconut oil, honey with maple syrup, and opt for a plant-based milk to create an equally delicious vegan version of these festive cookies.
- Lemon Zest Addition: Replace half the orange zest with lemon zest for a bright and zesty flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices. This fresh twist gives your cookies a delightful zing!
- Sugar Sprinkle: Finish with a sprinkle of coarse sugar on top of the glazed cookies before baking for an extra crunch and a sparkling holiday look. These little bursts of texture are a festive delight!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Orange Clove Christmas Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first four steps—creaming the ingredients, mixing in the spices and flour, and chilling the dough. Once your dough is ready, simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator to ensure it stays fresh and maintains its texture. When you’re ready to bake, just roll out the chilled dough, shape the cookies, and follow the baking instructions, which will reward you with just as delicious, festive cookies as if making them on the same day! Enjoy the time-saving benefits and get ready to impress your friends and family!
What to Serve with Orange Clove Christmas Cookies?
The scent of baking cookies brings warmth and joy to any gathering, so why not elevate your festive moment with delightful pairings?
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Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy texture and chocolatey sweetness perfectly balance the citrusy notes of the cookies for a comforting treat.
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Mulled Wine: This warm, spiced drink complements the holiday flavors and can even be served alongside the cookies for a cozy pairing.
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Cream Cheese Frosting: A tangy and sweet spread enhances each bite of cookie, adding richness that harmonizes wonderfully with the spices.
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Spiced Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in this tea echo those in the cookies, creating a soothing companion that warms both heart and soul.
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Candied Orange Slices: A burst of zesty sweetness that mirrors the cookie’s flavor profile while adding a lovely texture contrast. These can also serve as stunning holiday decor!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of this creamy delight on the side can bring a delightful coolness to the warm cookies, creating a sublime balance.
Bring on the festivities and enjoy these Orange Clove Christmas Cookies in good company with your favorite accompaniments!
How to Store and Freeze Orange Clove Christmas Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can keep them in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure they’re well-wrapped to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: Freeze unglazed cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to an airtight container.
Reheating: To enjoy, simply reheat in a warm oven for a few minutes before glazing them to restore their delightful texture and taste.
Expert Tips for Orange Clove Christmas Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for 30 minutes makes it easier to handle and helps the flavors meld beautifully.
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Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies; underbaking slightly will ensure they remain soft and chewy after glazing.
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Customize the Spice: Adjust the amount of ginger and nutmeg based on your taste preference to enhance the flavor of your Orange Clove Christmas Cookies.
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Glaze Consistency: For a thicker glaze, add less juice; for a thinner glaze, more juice or liqueur will help you achieve the perfect pour.
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Decorative Touch: Consider adding festive sprinkles or edible glitter on the glaze for an extra special holiday presentation.
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Store Properly: Keep your cookies in an airtight container to maintain their texture and flavor, ensuring they stay fresh for holiday sharing!
Orange Clove Christmas Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe oranges for the cookies?
Absolutely! Look for oranges that are firm, heavy for their size, and have a bright, smooth skin. Avoid any with dark spots or blemishes. The zest from ripe oranges will give your cookies the best flavor!
How should I store the Orange Clove Christmas Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness. If you prefer a longer shelf life, the fridge is also a good option—they can stay fresh for about a week when well-wrapped!
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, indeed! To freeze unglazed cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a warm oven for a few minutes before glazing.
What if my dough is too sticky?
No worries! If your dough turns out too sticky, just dust it with a bit of flour while mixing. If it remains tacky, add small amounts of flour until you achieve a workable consistency. It’s always easier to add flour than to fix overly dry dough!
Are these cookies safe for pets?
Generally, cookies like these are not suitable for pets due to ingredients like honey and spices. It’s best to keep these delightful Orange Clove Christmas Cookies out of reach, ensuring your furry friends stick to their own treats.
Can I adjust the spices in the recipe?
Very much so! Feel free to modify the spices to suit your taste. If you love a strong ginger flavor, add more than the ½ teaspoon suggested. Alternatively, you can reduce spices if you prefer a subtler taste—your cookies, your rules!
Delightful Orange Clove Christmas Cookies for Cozy Baking
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, cream the softened butter, honey, fancy molasses, vanilla extract, and salt on medium speed for about one minute until smooth and fluffy.
- Sprinkle in the zested orange, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cardamom, clove, and allspice. Beat for just 10 seconds to incorporate these warm holiday flavors.
- Gradually stir in the flour, first using a whisk and then a spoon, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Adjust the consistency with flour or a splash of water/milk as needed.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm it up.
- If using a cookie stamp, shape small dough pieces into balls, dust with flour, and press a flour-dusted stamp onto each ball before placing them on a baking sheet. If not stamping, roll out the dough and cut it into festive shapes with cookie cutters.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (~175°C) while arranging the formed cookies on lined baking sheets.
- Bake the cookies for about 10-14 minutes, or until the edges turn slightly golden brown.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the icing sugar, orange juice, Cointreau, and a pinch of clove until smooth.
- Once baked, allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes. Then, dip each one into the glaze or drizzle the glaze over them.
- Return the glazed cookies to the oven for 2 minutes. Then, turn off the heat and leave them in the oven for an additional 1-2 minutes to set the glaze.
- Let the cookies cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious.